Dental Assistant Salary in the United States
Based on 385K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$49,100
$23.61/hr
Salary Range
$39K – $61K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
385K
workers nationwide
The median Dental Assistant salary in the United States is $49,100 per year, which translates to approximately $24 per hour. This figure represents the midpoint of earnings for dental assistants nationwide, with a typical salary range falling between $38,576 and $60,985 annually.
Several factors influence the Dental Assistant salary in the United States. Experience level is a significant contributor, with seasoned professionals often commanding higher pay. Location also plays a crucial role, as cost of living and demand can vary considerably between states and metropolitan areas, with top-paying states like Minnesota offering salaries around $65,270.
Salary Distribution — Dental Assistant
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $38,576 |
| 25th percentile | $43,862 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $49,100 |
| 75th percentile | $55,695 |
| 90th percentile | $60,985 |
Dental Assistant Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Dental Assistant
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Minnesota | $65,270 | +32.9% | 6K |
| 2 | District of Columbia | $60,580 | +23.4% | 630 |
| 3 | Maine | $60,070 | +22.3% | 2K |
| 4 | New Hampshire | $59,530 | +21.2% | 2K |
| 5 | Oregon | $59,490 | +21.2% | 6K |
| 6 | Washington | $58,090 | +18.3% | 13K |
| 7 | Massachusetts | $57,980 | +18.1% | 10K |
| 8 | North Dakota | $57,770 | +17.7% | 860 |
| 9 | Alaska | $57,710 | +17.5% | 1K |
| 10 | Connecticut | $56,850 | +15.8% | 4K |
Dental Assistant Salary by Industry
How much Dental Assistants earn across industries nationwide — Finance and Insurance pays the most ($71,800 median). Ranked by median annual salary (2025 BLS OEWS data).
| # | Industry | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Finance and Insurance | $71,800 | +46.2% | 50 |
| 2 | Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $55,270 | +12.6% | 6K |
| 3 | Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $54,260 | +10.5% | — |
| 4 | Manufacturing | $52,290 | +6.5% | 130 |
| 5 | Other Services (except Public Administration) | $50,020 | +1.9% | 90 |
| 6 | Administrative and Support Services | $49,120 | +0.0% | 4K |
| 7 | Educational Services | $48,270 | -1.7% | 3K |
| 8 | Health Care and Social Assistance | $48,020 | -2.2% | 374K |
| 9 | Management of Companies and Enterprises | $45,630 | -7.1% | 200 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures.
Historical Salary Trend — Dental Assistant
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $49,100 |
| 2026 (projected) | $50,573 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
Dental Assistant Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $43,862 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $49,100 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $55,695 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $60,985 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Dental Assistant in the US?
- The typical salary range for a Dental Assistant in the United States falls between $38,576 and $60,985 annually. This means that while the median salary is $49,100, many professionals earn either less than this or more, depending on various factors.
How much do Dental Assistants make per hour on average?
- On average, Dental Assistants in the United States make about $24 per hour. This hourly rate is derived from the median annual salary of $49,100, providing a more granular view of their earning potential.
Which state pays Dental Assistants the most?
- Minnesota is the top-paying state for Dental Assistants in the United States, with an average salary of $65,270 per year. This is significantly higher than the national median, highlighting the impact of geographic location on compensation.
Is the demand for Dental Assistants high in the US?
- Yes, there is a substantial workforce of Dental Assistants in the US, with a total of 384,650 employed in the field. This indicates a consistent demand for these skilled professionals within the healthcare industry.